After years of near misses and heartbreaking second-place finishes, Paper Rex finally broke the so-called runner-up curse. They clinched their first-ever international VALORANT championship title.
In a thrilling finale at the Valorant Masters Toronto, the Singapore-based squad triumphed over Gen.G with a 3-2 victory. They secured not just the trophy but also redemption and global recognition.
The match wasn’t just another grand final—it marked the conclusion of a long-standing rivalry. Gen.G had previously bested Paper Rex during the VCT Pacific Finals earlier this season. All eyes were on whether Paper Rex could turn the tide. This time, they came in with more than just skill—they brought unshakable resolve.
From the opening maps, both teams traded blows in a high-octane battle filled with clutch plays and razor-thin margins. The fifth and final map, Sunset, saw Paper Rex dominate early. They then held off a fierce Gen.G comeback.
With a stunning 13-6 finish, they sealed the win and rewrote their own story.
While individual performances stood out, it was the team’s synergy and adaptability that made the difference. Star player Wang “Jinggg” Jing Jie had stepped away earlier in the season due to national service. He returned to the roster and delivered a performance fans will remember for years.
His presence not only boosted morale. It also elevated the team’s overall gameplay.
Paper Rex’s journey hasn’t been easy. After finishing second in several major tournaments—including the Copenhagen and Tokyo Masters—they were often labeled as the team that couldn’t close out.
But this time, they didn’t just compete—they conquered. Their victory in Toronto isn’t just about a title. It’s a powerful statement that perseverance pays off.
This historic win also reshapes the global VALORANT competitive landscape. With Paper Rex proving they can beat the best on the biggest stage, the door is now wide open. Pacific teams now have a real shot to rise and challenge the usual dominance of Western and Korean rosters.
As confetti fell and the team lifted the trophy, fans around the world celebrated not just a win—but the end of a long wait. Paper Rex didn’t just take the crown. They earned every moment of it.
